The 2009 European Wind Energy Conference (EWEC) will see Romax Technology present a key paper next month in Marseille discussing effective design processes for the development of durable wind turbine gearboxes.
The wind turbine gearbox design process is highly complex and generally requires computer simulations to guide component selection and understand system interactions. At present, most commonly used design standards and certification guidelines do not explicitly recommend that gearbox housing flexibility or planet carrier flexibility be considered. However, Romax Technology will demonstrate in its paper that ignoring these factors can have a significant impact on bearing alignments, gear contact patterns and predicted component lives.
Romax will discuss the significance of housing and planet carrier flexibility to the durability of wind turbine drivetrains with the help of their advanced simulation and analysis software. Four models, of various levels of detail, will be presented that progressively include non-linear bearings, flexible planet carrier and flexible housing. Design studies conducted using these models will demonstrate the importance of including all significant compliances in the gearbox model if durable drivetrain designs are to be developed.
In addition to delivering the paper, Romax will also display their capabilities and offerings as part of the exhibition. Its stand will provide an opportunity for visitors to gain an understanding of the consultancy’s expertise in drivetrain design and analysis through software demonstrations and discussions with a team of technical and commercial staff.
“In the wind energy area of our business, events are a key part of our activities presenting us with the opportunity to meet with our customers and collaborators as well as contributing to the technical development of the industry,” said Andy Poon, Director of Wind Energy at Romax. “EWEC, one of the key European wind energy events, will be particularly exciting for Romax as we are not only presenting a key paper, but are also giving 3 posters presentations and welcoming visitors to our stand at the exhibition.”